After many years, Bayern Munich have only lost one match in the Champions League group stage. But for coach Vincent Kompany, this is a familiar experience. Under Burnley last season, Kompany's side lost 24 Premier League games, including twice against Aston Villa.
This was Kompany's first defeat as head coach of the "Gray Tigers". And this was also the Belgian strategist's third defeat to Villa in just 14 months. Unai Emery was once one of the coaches Bayern considered after announcing the departure of Thomas Tuchel.
Emery's experience in the European arena helped Villa beat a Bayern in good form. Remember, the "captain" of the Spaniard has played 189 matches in his coaching career in European competitions.
Emery's attention to detail completely defeated Kompany. Bayern's high defensive line was constantly threatened by Villa's fast-paced and powerful players such as Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran.
Compared to Emery, Kompany has much better quality personnel on the bench. Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sane, Joao Palhinha, Matthys Tel and Leon Goretzka were brought on, while Thomas Muller, Raphael Guerreiro and Eric Dier were not. Maybe Kompany should not have replaced Michael Olise. As for Musiala, it was not until the second half that the young German star was used, although Kompany explained that he was ill.
Kompany began his reign at the Allianz Arena with six consecutive wins and 29 goals. His first match in the Champions League as a coach also ended in a 9-2 victory. However, with Bayern's strength, they often have a habit of winning big against weaker opponents over the years.
Therefore, the "Gray Tigers" coaches are often evaluated through more decisive matches. And Kompany's most difficult week so far has been his worst. Bayern drew 1-1 with Bayer Leverkusen and lost 0-1 to Villa. In fact, they were capable of winning both of those matches.
Kompany's task is not only to beat weak teams but also to submit to senior coaches like Alonso and Emery. In a way, Kompany is following in Tuchel's footsteps. Last season, Bayern lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League also due to a super reserve on the opponent's side, Joselu.
But that was the semi-final. They are only 2 minutes away from the final. The standards have been set very high. Bayern played four games against English sides last season, beating Manchester United at home and away, drawing with Arsenal and winning the return quarter-final in Bavaria.
"If you don't take your chances, it can happen. We had good chances but didn't score. We were careless in one situation and Aston Villa scored from that situation.
I can understand the opponent's situation and this is a special evening for them" - Kompany said after the loss to Villa.
From coaching a team that is used to losses, to now, each failure will put a lot of pressure on Kompany. The past few days may be an experience that will overwhelm the Belgian strategist.
